Lewis Hamilton says he loved cars more than Nicole Scherzinger

Lewis Hamilton and Nicole Scherzinger had split in February 2015Reuters

Formula One racing driver Lewis Hamilton has revealed the real reason behind his split from American singer/actress Nicole Scherzinger. The couple parted ways for the fourth and final time in February 2015.

During an interview with Top Gear magazine, Hamilton said that he loves cars more than his relationships. He said: "My cars are my babies. I used to say, when I had a girlfriend, 'I'm taking one of the girls out, so you can some if you want, but you come second when it comes to the cars.'"

Scherzinger and Hamilton started dating in 2007, and have been in a on-again off-again relationship. It was previously reported that the former X Factor judge was tired of Hamilton's refusal to commit.

Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, the Baby Love singer admitted that her busy career has taken a toll on her relationships with loved ones. She said: "I try not to regret things, because I feel like as long as you put positive energy towards something – and you put your whole self, your true self, towards it – it'll lead you to the next place you're supposed to be."

She continued: "I look at this as a great blessing for me to be able to take on this role... but I have made sacrifices. This is very time consuming. I've left LA, left all my friends and my family. It's sacrificing your time in relationships, with loved ones, and my work..."